Don’t Let Your Boss’s Favoritism Get You Down

Many managers have a pet employee who appears to get special treatment—interesting assignments, invitations to social events, or even perks. As the non-pet, you may want to scream in frustration. Instead, try this:

Stop obsessing. There’s little point to moaning that your boss has a favorite and it’s not fair. That’s not going to change the situation.

Get to know your boss better. It’s not sucking up to ask your manager how her weekend went or to compare notes on restaurants you’d like to try. Invite her to coffee or lunch, without an agenda.

Shine your own light. Many people are reluctant to draw attention to their successes, but you need to get over your modesty; or else the pet will continue to consume your boss’s attention.